Classification of Schizophrenia

Question 1

How is schizophrenia characterised?

Answer 1

• Distorted thinking
• Impaired emotional responses
• Distortion of reality
• Symptoms can be characterised into positive or negative

Question 2

What are some positive symptoms of schizophrenia?

Answer 2

• Hallucinations
• Delusions
• Disorganised speech (derailment)
• Catatonic behaviour - abnormal movements, speech, actions

Question 3

What are some negative symptoms of schizophrenia?

Answer 3

• Speech poverty - speaking less
• Avolition - reduced interests/goals
• Affective flattening - reduced facial expressions

Question 4

What’s the diagnostic criteria for schizophrenia according to the DSM?

Answer 4

• 2 or more symptoms must be present for significant time during 1 month - at least 1 symptom must be positive
• Level of functioning is below their normal level
• Continuous signs of disturbance for at least 6 months